Durable (Financial) Power of Attorney Forms

A power of attorney form is a legal document that enables an individual, who is referred to as the principal, to appoint an agent, who is called the attorney-in-fact, to act on their behalf. The agent can handle a broad range of tasks, such as making financial, medical, guardianship, or tax-related decisions.

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Last updated January 18th, 2025

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A power of attorney form is a legal document that enables an individual, who is referred to as the principal, to appoint an agent, who is called the attorney-in-fact, to act on their behalf. The agent can handle a broad range of tasks, such as making financial, medical, guardianship, or tax-related decisions.

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A power of attorney form is a legal document that allows a person (called the agent’) to make decisions, both legally and medically, over the person whom created the document (known as the ‘principal’).

Medical Power of Attorney Forms – PDF

By State

Power of Attorney Form Types 🗂️

  • General – Gives the agent broad powers over the Principal.
  • Limited – Typically for highly specific purposes and/or specific time frames.
  • Durable (most common) – A power of attorney that consists of language that allows the agent to make decisions on behalf of the Principal if in an incapacitated state.
  • Medical – Only allows the agent to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the Principal.
  • Springing – A power of attorney that only comes into effect if a circumstance is triggered.

Where to Get a Power of Attorney Form?

A power of attorney form can be obtained online or by a professional attorney that can customize the language in the form to the Principal’s specific needs.

Obtaining a Power of Attorney Online 📄

  • To be able to choose from templates in multiple formats and customize your power of attorney is more cost-friendly than hiring a professional.
  • Easily fill out the template and download within minutes, especially if one is in an urgent matter.

Obtaining a Power of Attorney Through a Professional Lawyer

  • For situations where the risks are high, inquiring a power of attorney through a professional is recommended.
  • Estate planning usually incorporates an attorney.

What is the Definition of “Power of Attorney”?

Definition by the Uniform Power of Attorney Act:

“A “Power of attorney” is a document that gives an agent the authority to act on behalf of the principal.”

Source: Section 102(7)

Power of Attorney Flow Chart 📊

POA-Flow-Chart

Follow these simple steps when writing a Power of Attorney Form.

Step 1:  Choose an Agent Wisely

Choosing someone to make decisions on your behalf should be someone who you can trust when you need them most.

Step 2: Level of Authority

Outline in writing exactly what you will give your agent powers to do on your behalf.

Step 3: Type of POA Form

Select the POA form that is based on your needs. The most common types are general and limited.

Step 4: Creating the Document

Download free POA template of your choice and fill in the blanks, sign, and get the form notarized.

Step 5: Final Step

Make copies of the signed POA form and give to all members included in the form.

Law Alert ⚖️

Uniform Power of Attorney Act – Statute § 102(7) Pg. 7

FAQs

  1. Who can override a power of attorney? The principal as long as they still have a ‘sound mind’.

Preview an Example of the Power of Attorney Form PDF Template

Sample

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